Code change could bring Siouxland new gambling hall

A land-based gambling casino is one step closer to reality for the Siouxland area.

The city council in Sioux City, Iowa, is changing the code to allow a gaming facility in the downtown.

The city now has a floating boat casino, but its owners want to build a land-based facility and other gambling operators are also expressing interest.

It’s one of the larger employers and attractions for the area — from both sides of the Missouri River.

Iowa’s gaming regulators have placed Woodbury County’s gambling license up for competitive bidding after months of non-productive talks between a non-profit group holding the license and the current boat facility.

A development group for the Winnebago Native American Tribe of Nebraska said earlier this month it’s interested in developing a downtown Sioux City casino.

Iowa’s Racing and Gaming Commission wants applications in by November 1st.